Skincare in Japan: our shopping tips

Published on : 29/10/2024
by : Rita El.manaa

The Japanese are renowned for their meticulous, preventive approach to skin care. Every step of their routine is designed to anticipate skin problems before they occur.

The importance of skincare in Japan

In Japan, the options for skincare are vast and endless, a major industry that's popular and well-tended to buy all kinds of demographics throughout the country. For many people in Japan, skincare goes beyond a daily routine, becoming a full on, passion-infused hobby that entails a lot of personal research and experimentation.

This subculture of skincare philosophy is based on prevention rather than repair. Premature ageing, imperfections and signs of fatigue are combated by simple but rigorous daily routines.

Japanese skincare highlights

Japanese layering is a 7-step skincare ritual practiced daily by the Japanese to ensure beautiful, natural skin at any age.

Here are the steps and must-have skincare products:

Cleansing oils double cleansing is the key step for the Japanese. Cleansing oils such as the famous DHC Deep Cleansing Oil and Ma:nyo thoroughly remove make-up and impurities while nourishing the skin.
Cleansing gels cleansing gels, like Perfect Whip, provide a light foam that gently cleanses the skin without drying it out. They are often used after oiling to remove the last traces of dirt.
Masks (optional): Masks are a crucial part of the Japanese skincare ritual, used for more intensive care once or twice a week. Fabric masks like those from Lululun or InnisFree are very popular, infused with moisturizing and brightening serums to revitalize the skin. They provide an immediate boost of hydration and freshness.
Moisturizing lotions unlike Western toners, Japanese lotions are designed to moisturize the skin. Hada Labo Gokujyun Lotion, rich in hyaluronic acid, is a must-have for plump, radiant skin.

Essences and serums: these concentrated products are essential for targeting specific needs. SK-II Facial Treatment Essence, for example, is an icon of Japanese skincare, renowned for its regenerating power.
Moisturizers: Moisturizing creams in Japan are often light but very nourishing. Naturie Hatomugi Skin Conditioning Gel Cream is a popular choice, as it deeply moisturizes without leaving a greasy film. Moisturizers play a key role in sealing in moisture after the previous layering steps.
Sun Screen: sun protection is a top priority in Japan. Creams like Biore UV Aqua Rich Watery Essence offer effective protection with a light, pleasant texture.

Products to bring back home

If you're visiting Japan, some Japanese skincare products are absolutely worth a detour. Here's a selection of extra products to bring back to prolong your Japanese skincare experience:

Cloth masks: Brands like Lululun offer moisturizing and soothing cloth masks, perfect for an express at-home treatment.
Tatcha Rice Polish: A gentle rice enzyme-based exfoliant that leaves skin smooth and luminous.
Binchotan Charcoal Soap: Used to purify and detoxify the skin, this soap is perfect for blemish-prone skin.
Hada Labo Premium Lotion: This improved version of the classic lotion is ideal for dry climates and dehydrated skin.

Men's skincare in Japan

Skincare for men is a fast-growing market in Japan. Unlike in other cultures, Japanese men take just as rigorous care of their skin as women do. Specific products are developed to meet men's needs, notably in terms of texture and formulation:

Cleansing gels for men: Brands like Shiseido Men or Biore for Men offer gentle yet effective cleansers to remove excess sebum and impurities.
Light moisturizers: Men generally prefer lighter textures, and moisturizers like MUJI Men Moisturizing Milk offer hydration without a greasy feel.
After-shave care: Men's TBC range offers soothing aftershave lotions to calm skin and prevent irritation after shaving.

Brands such as Bulk Homme and Nile offer products tailored to men's specific needs.
Bulk Homme offers a fabric mask designed for larger faces, while Nile offers an all-in-one lotion, ideal after shaving. Null Collective offers a concealer to hide imperfections, and Marks & Web, another popular brand, favors natural, artisanal skincare.

Where to buy skincare products in Japan

Don Quijote: Popular store for its competitive prices, with brands like Shiseido, DHC, and SK-II. Some branches are open 24 hours a day.
@cosme Store: Store linked to the @cosme beauty site, featuring products rated highest by users.
Matsumoto Kiyoshi : Large drugstore chain, ideal for brands like Hada Labo, Biore, and Curel at affordable prices.
Health & Beauty: H&B manufactures and sells cosmetics and beauty products.
InnisFree : A chain offering innovative cosmetics, including masks and moisturizing lotions.
Tokyu Hands: Sold less common skincare products, including natural and organic items.
Sugi Drug: Less touristy drugstore, often with lower prices.
Aeon Mall: Shopping malls offering Japanese and international brands all in one place.

Whether you're a minimalist or a skincare enthusiast, Japan offers a multitude of products to suit all skin types. You'll find real treasures for taking care of your face while adopting a preventive approach, at the heart of the Japanese skincare philosophy.